13. WET 10

The WET 10 is an informal group of Livery Companies who represent both users and suppliers of water. The aim is to promote awareness, to contribute to debate and to be an influence for good in this key area. Current members are: Plumbers, Basketmakers, Gardeners, Farmers, Guild of Air Pilots, Tobacco Pipemakers & Tobacco Blenders, Scientific Instrument Makers, Launderers, Environmental Cleaners, Constructors, Water Conservators, Firefighters and Watermen & Lightermen (13 in total – there were 10 originally!).

In recent years, WET 10 has been jointly chaired (and often sponsored) by Roger Hewitt and Barry Dennis (both Water Conservators) with secretarial/clerical  services provided by the Clerk to the Plumbers. In recent months the Clerk to the Plumbers has announced his retirement and the Plumbers have stated that they will not be able to provide secretarial/clerical support going forward. In addition Roger and Barry have indicated their intentions to stand down. In recognition of these changes Roger and Barry have attempted to call a Committee meeting of the WET 10 members but had very limited support in trying to find a way forward. Whilst there is widespread support for the idea of WET 10 amongst the livery, there is little or no willingness to play an active role.

Earlier this week I met with Roger and Barry to try and thrash out a way forward for this group. We are keen to maintain a high profile for The Water Conservators, particularly relating to the annual lecture (usually held in February) which receives good PR for our industry.

We believe we may have found a way forward and this will be discussed at our Finance, Management & General Purposes Committee (FM & GP) in early September. Watch this space!